Ebola
7 preventive tips to protect you from the virus

Washing your hands with soap and water regularly will protect you from Ebola

(Premium Times )

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On Tuesday, May 8, 2018, the government of DR Congo declared a fresh outbreak of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the country.

Ebola virus spreads in Congo

The virus has continued to spread. The virus has moved from the countryside in Congo to the city of Mbandaka. According to the latest figures by the BBC, 42 people have been infected while 23 people have been confirmed dead.

This new outbreak of Ebola has sparked fears of the virus spreading beyond DR Congo.

In this handout photograph released by UNICEF on May 13, 2018, a health worker wears protective equipment as he looks on at Bikoro Hospital - the epicenter of the latest Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo

(UNICEF/AFP/File)

From 2013-2016, the most widespread outbreak of the Ebola Virus happened in the West Africa sub-region. The virus took the lives of 11,310 people within this period.

Nigeria reacts to Ebola outbreak in Congo

The Nigerian government has taken preventive measures to ensure the virus does not spread into the country. A day after the announcement by the Congo DR government, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) intensified screening tests at airports and other entry points into the country.

Also on Wednesday, May 9, 2018, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) directed the Ministry of Health to step up surveillance activities.

A Liberian-American, Patrick Sawyer, who was infected with the disease, flew into the country from Liberia to Lagos, sparking an outbreak. 20 Nigerians were infected and 8 people died from the virus including Dr Stella Ameyo Adadevoh.